Touvedo Dam, Gravity dam and hydroelectric station in Viana do Castelo, Portugal.
Touvedo Dam is a gravity barrier across the Limia River that creates a reservoir and generates electricity through turbine operations. The structure also functions as the lower storage basin for the Alto Lindoso pumped-storage facility upstream.
Construction took place from 1987 to 1993 as part of Portugal's effort to expand renewable energy generation. The facility became one of several hydroelectric installations developed during that period in northern Portugal.
The installation supplies electricity to communities in the region through a carefully managed water flow system. Visitors can observe how the structure integrates into the local landscape along the Limia River.
You can view the installation from outside and observe the water flows and reservoir from nearby vantage points. Access is available via local roads in the river valley.
The system works in tandem with the Alto Lindoso facility, pumping water back and forth between two reservoirs to balance electricity supply throughout the day. This coordination between two installations makes it a key part of the region's energy network.
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